In Norwich, Connecticut, Phil Pavone found himself with a couple of wheelchairs at his pawn shop, A-Z Pawn. First, he tried selling the chairs. However, once Phil made the wheelchair available for sale, no one wanted them. Yet, when he decided to give them away, he received 60 responses. Phil’s incredible journey begins here.
Helping Others
Not only did Phil give away the two original wheelchairs, but he bought two more and gave those away, too. Since then, Phil’s efforts to help out other people have only increased.
All of the wheelchairs that Phil works with are motorized. Throughout the year, not only does Phil buy wheelchairs, but he also takes donations for motorized chairs, as well as refurbishes wheelchairs. Then, around Christmas time, Phil gives the chairs to those who are handicap. As of now, he has almost 50 wheelchairs that are ready to be given away this holiday season.
Phil notes that this will be his fifth year to give away wheelchairs. Throughout those five years, Phil and his store have given away well over a hundred wheelchairs to those who are in need. Phil shares that a lot of people chosen for these free wheelchairs are those who need a chair to move, but can’t afford one or don’t have the aid of insurance. Those who need assistance include: amputees, those diagnosed with MS, stroke victims, and people who can’t walk.
Throughout the year, volunteers help to refurbish wheelchairs, while Phil spends about $10,000 of his own money to give the gift of mobility. Phil believes that seeing the smile on people’s faces as they receive the chairs is worth the price he pays to provide assistance.
Do What You Can
The holiday season is quickly approaching us. Though it’s great to offer help during this time, it’s even better to offer assistance year round, whenever you can. Don’t forget that everyone needs help from time to time. In fact, if you are in need of a chair, then send a letter to Phil and tell him your story.
Cutter has been featured in various online magazines and print anthologies, showcasing his short stories and poems. In addition to his work as a writer, Cutter works as an actor in the San Diego area, his experience varying from local commercials to independent features. He currently works at CreativeMob as a web copywriter.
